A five-drachma-in-the-slot sacred water dispenser by Heron of Alexandria (10 -70 AD) was probably the world's first coin automat, and Vending Machines also ushered in the coin machine age, towards the end of the 19th century. Designed to deliver a product, such as chocolate or stamps, in exchange for coins, there was supposed to be no element of chance. However, mechanical frailties often left honest customers short-changed, while the dishonest could get something for nothing. They only became truly reliable towards the end of the 20th century, with microchips monitoring their input and output. Their mundane function was sometimes offset by elaborate exteriors in a form of sculptural advertising.

Beechnut vendors were a common sight in the 1950s and '60s often sited around newsagents. You received a packet of gum for an old penny and a free one on every 4th penny used. The position of an arrow on the handle would indicate when the next free packet was due.

The elaborate Arabic styling of this fine and very early vendor promotes Cadbury's chocolate as an exotic luxury while targeting the new cycling craze demand for portable energy snacks, "The Favourite Beverage for Cyclists and Tourists - Gives Strength & Vigour to the System".

The elaborate construction and "police box" style, complete with illuminating top-box, suggest a late '20s - early '30s date. The badge tells us it was made by the Caledonian Automatic Scale Co. Ltd. of Edinburgh, but unfortunately nothing is presently known about that company.